Medical Waste

This page has information about disposing of medical waste safely.

Prescription Medication disposal

Several county Justice Center and Police Department buildings have medical collection boxes. 

Needles and syringes disposal

Home healthcare waste often includes items known as “sharps”. This may be things like: 

• needles and syringes 
• lancets (also called fingerstick devices) 
• auto-injectors (like insulin pens)
• Infusion or connection sets
• soiled bandages
• disposable sheets
• medical gloves.

How to dispose of these safely

You can help prevent injury, illness, and pollution by following these simple steps:

1. Always disinfect your “sharps” (diluted bleach works well). 
2. Place all “sharps” in a puncture-resistant, hard plastic or metal container. For example, an empty detergent bottle with a screw-on cap or an empty coffee can. 
3. Close the container with its original lid and secure with heavy duty tape.
4. Place the sealed container in a paper bag and discard it with your household trash. Don’t put it in your recycling.

Put used bandages, disposable sheets, and gloves in a tightly tied plastic trash bag. Then place in your garbage can. 

Other disposal options

If you can’t dispose of your medical waste at home, try one of these options: 

• Ask your doctor or local hospital
• Check with your pharmacy – they may sell special containers for medical waste
• Check with a regional household hazardous waste collection facility.